As an avid car fan, I am constantly looking at the cost effectiveness of certain vehicles in which I am interested in. Not being in a position to buy a car, I am looking at leasing or financing. A hybrid is by far the most ideal vehicle on the marketplace in regards to the "Green Movement" as of right now. Every marketing and advertising agency is trying to push them. But ideally as a young single, is it within a price range that one can afford? Many consumers may agree with me in regards to whether or not a hybrid vehicle will suit their individual needs, especially in relation to cost.
Ultimately, we would all like to be a bit "greener", but it in the end it does come down to cost effectiveness. If you were to approach a certain dealership in regards to a certain make and model in a hybrid and your sales person quotes you a certain amount for a regular gas guzzler (Camry V6) for such and such amount and then you ask about the Camry Hybrid and he/she quotes you a few hundred dollars more, what do you do? In reality, with the economy in the state that it's in, who would want to invest in a set of wheels that to start with has a very high monthly payment and that there is very little long term research on?
Most consumers would take the "gas guzzler" for cheaper rather than taking on a higher monthly payment just to be green. If one thinks about the additional costs incurred by being "green", it may take a consumer a few steps back as well. You are now moving on to high monthly payments, insurance for a newer vehicle and maintenance costs. Because these are newer vehicles, one cannot be quite sure as to the maintenance costs may incur over time for a hybrid vehicle.
Having gone and researched these vehicles, one comes to wonder that within a lease and/or finance, are you ultimately receiving the most out of these "Fuel efficient" vehicles. I tend to think not. As a leased vehicle, a hybrid may not be the most cost effective set of wheels, but as a straight out purchase one may find themselves at a greater advantage. At this point all I can suggest is that green is good but be wise, in this economy make proper financial choices in regards to your vehicles and find the right fuel efficient car that suits your individual needs.
Do you have a hybrid vehicle? Was it worth the extra upfront cost? My readers would love to know directly from the source rather than what is suggested in magazines or biased sources. Click on the comment box and share your thoughts and I will have them posted for others to enjoy. |